A majority of Gen Z professionals are willing to take longer business journeys to cut carbon emissions, but most employers have yet to support this shift, new research reveals.
A survey by Trainline Partner Solutions (TPS), the B2B arm of Europe’s leading rail and coach ticketing platform, found that 60% of Gen Z workers are open to “slower business travel” — opting for lower-carbon options such as rail, even if it means extended travel times. But despite the overwhelming demand for more sustainable travel options, only 44% say their employer actively encourages lower-carbon alternatives.
With 89% of respondents expressing concern over the environmental impact of business travel, pressure is mounting on organisations to rethink their travel policies. However, many young professionals feel trapped by competing demands, with half (50%) citing time and budget constraints as major barriers to greener travel choices, the survey indicates.
Business Travel Remains Essential — but at What Cost?
Despite their environmental consciousness, Gen Z professionals are not willing to give up business travel entirely. The research, which surveyed 1,001 UK-based Gen Z workers, found that 94% believe business travel is crucial for career development. Building client relationships (46%) and networking with senior colleagues (45%) were cited as the top benefits.
As Gen Z is set to make up 30% of the workforce by 2030, businesses that fail to adapt may struggle to attract and retain young talent. Three-quarters (75%) of those surveyed said they would prioritise lower-carbon travel if their employer offered clear policies and incentives to support it.
But the disconnect between Gen Z’s sustainability values and their career ambitions is causing workplace stress. Over a third (37%) of survey respondents feel a personal conflict between career travel and its environmental impact, while 59% worry that reducing business travel could limit their opportunities for progression.
Andrew Cruttenden, general manager at Trainline Partner Solutions, said Gen Z staff were forcing people to think about their environmental impact when travelling for business.
“Gen Z is redefining what business travel looks like, shifting the emphasis away from purely fast and convenient to also be mindful and sustainable,” he said. “While Gen Z professionals still want business travel, many don’t want to compromise their personal principles.”
Cruttenden added that there was “a huge opportunity” for business travel firms to meet the growing interest in green travel options, and that they should actively offer more environmentally friendly solutions to their clients.
Finding Solutions: How Businesses Can Support Sustainable Business Travel
Rather than forcing employees to choose between career growth and sustainability, experts say companies can take proactive steps to integrate sustainable business travel policies while supporting workplace wellbeing. Solutions-based approaches include:
- Embedding sustainability into travel policies – Companies can develop clear guidelines encouraging employees to opt for lower-carbon travel, such as rail, wherever possible.
- Providing incentives for sustainable choices – Reimbursing employees for additional travel time or offering rewards for lower-carbon business trips can encourage uptake.
- Flexible travel planning – Allowing employees to schedule meetings and travel with sustainability in mind can reduce stress while aligning with Gen Z’s values.
- Investing in technology – Virtual and hybrid meetings can help reduce the need for frequent business trips while maintaining connectivity.
Supporting employee wellbeing – Recognising the stress of conflicting priorities, businesses can provide guidance and mental health resources to ensure employees feel supported in making sustainable choices.
